Embroidery

This is one of the most important traditional crafts of Jordanian women and one which has, in recent years, been incorporated into high fashion. Elegant gowns and jackets have been created using traditional needlework together with rich, Middle Eastern fabrics and these designer collections are frequently modelled on the catwalks of Jordan's hotels.

It all began much more simply, however, with the young Jordanian girl learning the craft of embroidery in her village and often being judged through her skill on the quality of bridegroom she would attract. Every Jordanian girl from every social class at one time embroidered her own trousseau, which consisted of between six and twelve loosely-cut robes and which lasted her for a lifetime.

This art of embroidery has been carried over into the making of cushions, which grace the decor of many Jordanian homes. Colours range from shades of red, maroon, purple and pink, with bright additions of green, orange and gold. Simple cross-stitch is the basis for a plethora of complicated designs and recurring motifs include trees, flowers, feathers, waves and geometric zig-zags or triangles.

More recently, embroidery crafts have developed to include quilts.